Sarah Rainsford, a BBC correspondent focused on Eastern Europe and the Ukraine war, joins Mark Galeotti, a noted Russia expert, and Tim Whewell, who covers Poland-Ukraine relations. They discuss the potential implications of a Trump presidency in 2025 on U.S. military aid to Ukraine and the ongoing conflict. The challenges of peace negotiations are examined, along with the impact on Ukrainian society from conscription issues. Additionally, they delve into the changing dynamics in Russia and historical tensions affecting Poland's support for Ukraine.

Evan Gershkovich, a journalist recently freed after 16 months in Russian custody, shares his harrowing experience alongside fellow returnees Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan. Sarah Rainsford offers insight into the emotional toll on families, while Gordon Corera discusses the geopolitical implications of the largest East-West prisoner swap since the Cold War. The speakers reflect on the high stakes of such exchanges and the persistent hope for others still detained amid ongoing conflict.

In this gripping discussion, Sarah Rainsford, BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent, shares her on-the-ground insights from Ukraine. She reveals the poignant story of Lyudmila, a daughter searching for her parents who disappeared during the war. The conversation explores the emotional turmoil of families disrupted by conflict, the dangers of being labeled a traitor, and the harrowing realities faced by individuals in search of justice amidst chaos. Despite the heartache, themes of resilience and hope shine through in this deeply human narrative.

Guests include Sarah Rainsford, a BBC correspondent in Moldova covering the EU referendum amid Russian interference, and Nick Sturdee, who reports on Ukrainian fighters in the Kursk region. Mike Wendling explores voter anxieties in Wisconsin as Halloween approaches, reflecting deeper concerns about democracy. Will Grant shares insights on life in Cuba after a nationwide blackout due to Hurricane Oscar. Finally, Rebecca Henschke discusses her investigation into a global animal torture ring and the rescue of macaque monkeys, weaving together themes of resilience and activism.

Join BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent Sarah Rainsford, who has extensively reported on Ukraine, alongside Ukrainian journalist Olga Malchevska, creator of "Ukraine Women at War." They delve into the remarkable contributions of Ukrainian women amid the conflict, particularly the 'Witches of Bucha,' a volunteer air defense unit. Their discussion highlights the transformation of gender roles, the empowerment of women stepping into military roles, and personal narratives of resilience and trauma as they navigate a war-torn society.

Sarah Rainsford is a BBC correspondent based in Kyiv, reporting firsthand on the war in Ukraine, while Sergey Radchenko is a renowned Cold War historian offering deep geopolitical insights. They discuss President Zelensky’s diplomatic moves across Europe and the importance of sustained support amidst the conflict. The duo questions whether the West truly grasps the reality of the war and examines how upcoming elections might influence public and military backing for Ukraine, highlighting the complexities of sentiment and strategies across nations.

In this engaging discussion, Paul Whelan, a former US Marine imprisoned in Russia, shares his harrowing experience during the recent high-stakes prisoner swap. Journalist Evan Gershkovich provides insight into the risks faced by reporters in Russia. Sarah Rainsford, the BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent, and Gordon Corera, the security correspondent, dive into the emotional toll of such exchanges and the complex negotiations involved. Together, they highlight the personal stories behind the politics, shedding light on the resilience of those fighting for freedom.

The podcast explores the aftermath of Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, including the blackout affecting 700,000 people. It features eyewitness accounts from residents, analysis from military experts, and updates from Kyiv. The episode sheds light on the challenges faced by Ukraine's air defense and the global response to the crisis.

BBC correspondent Sarah Rainsford and writer Boris Akunin discuss the reported death of Alexei Navalny, Putin's main rival. Topics include international reactions, Navalny's resilience and impact on Russia, the torture he endured in prison, and the implications for the Kremlin. The podcast also touches on the conflict in Ukraine.

Steve Rosenberg, the BBC correspondent based in Moscow, shares expert insights on the Russian perspective, while Sarah Rainsford, reporting from Kyiv, captures the emotional turmoil facing Ukrainians. Paul Adams provides historical context, linking the crisis to deep-seated geopolitical trends. They dive into NATO's role, discuss the influence of propaganda, and explore the complexities of shared heritage versus political animosity. The conversation highlights the fragile peace in the region and the urgent need for international support amidst rising tensions.